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Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Traditional Bulgarian Zucchini with Rice

A light and comforting Bulgarian dish combining tender zucchini with flavorful rice, seasoned with fresh herbs.

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This traditional Bulgarian dish, Tikvichki s Oriz, is a simple yet delicious recipe featuring zucchini and rice simmered with herbs and spices. It’s a popular summer meal in Bulgaria, known for its lightness and nourishing qualities.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients (For Four People)

  • 2 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup rice (short or medium-grain, round rice works best)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small carrot, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil (or 1 tbsp goose fat for a richer flavor)
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the vegetable oil (or olive oil) and goose fat in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the diced carrot at the end.

Step 2: Add the Zucchini and Some Dill

Add the diced zucchini and some finely chopped dill to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Paprika

Stir in the rice and paprika, cooking for 1-2 minutes to coat the rice with the oil and spices. This step enhances the rice’s flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped dill and parsley. If needed, adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the zucchini and rice warm, garnished with extra fresh dill for a burst of flavor.

A light and comforting Bulgarian dish combining tender zucchini with flavorful rice, seasoned with fresh herbs.
A light and comforting Bulgarian dish combining tender zucchini with flavorful rice seasoned with fresh herbs.

Tips and Tricks

  • Rice Choice: Short or medium-grain rice works best for this dish as it absorbs flavors well without becoming mushy.
  • Zucchini Texture: Add the zucchini midway through cooking the rice rather than at the beginning for a firmer texture midway.
  • Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a hint of acidity, enhancing the dish’s flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a slice of crusty bread, Bulgarian yogurt, or white cheese for a complete meal.

Wine Pairing

  • Typical Wine: A light Bulgarian Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the fresh, herby flavors of the dish.
  • Bulgarian Wine: A local white wine, such as Misket, pairs beautifully with the subtle flavors of zucchini and rice.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g

Dietary Modifications

  • Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free.
  • Vegan: Use vegetable broth to make it suitable for a vegan diet (omit goose fat).

About the Bulgarian Zucchini with Rice

This dish is a staple in Bulgarian cuisine, especially during summer when zucchini are in season. It’s a light and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs with tender rice, embodying the simplicity and nourishment of Bulgarian home cooking.

Cultural Context

Bulgarian Zucchini with Rice reflects the country’s appreciation for fresh, seasonal produce. This dish is often enjoyed as a comforting vegetarian main course or as a side dish in Bulgarian households, especially during warm months.

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